Education

Given that Vanderbilt University is home to the Peabody College of Education and Human Development, one of the top ranked schools of education in the United States, opportunities for research in education are substantial. Peabody College houses numerous research institutes, journals, and, of course, some of the most renowned teachers and researchers in the field of Education. Interdisciplinary research is also common. Students at Peabody routinely work in tandem with students at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center and the College of Arts and Science to conduct research on cognitive development and the science of the learning brain. Peabody College students also conduct joint projects with other schools and departments at Vanderbilt and remain the forefront of research in educational technology. Peabody College is also a leader in producing policy research and research on the theory and practices of organizational development. Whether studying the effectiveness of charter schools, or creating ways for members of communities to more effectively engage with each other, students will find myriad ways to connect their research to practice.

Students interested in conducting research in education should be very open about contacting faculty in the field. Because the range of research varies so greatly, from projects such as studying the brains of toddlers as they learn to read, to projects like exploring the policy implications of changes to the Higher Education Act, students should explore the many options that Vanderbilt’s Peabody College has to offer. Faculty at Peabody College are open to consulting with students about their research interests and finding that perfect fit.

One of the guiding principles of studying education at Peabody is combining research and practice. Those who are pursuing careers in teaching or organizational development are encouraged to explore research as a way to strengthen their abilities as practitioners and as professionals, likewise, those who are pursuing careers in research are highly encouraged to spend time in a practical setting as a way to enhance the scope and applicability of their research.